Southern California -- this just in

Hollywood producer found dead in apparent suicide

August 29, 2012 | 10:36
pm

Family members say a man who died when his vehicle plunged over the side of Angeles Crest Highway on Wednesday was producer Brian Gerber, who worked with Leonardo DiCaprio on the environmental film, "11th Hour."

Gerber, whose producing credits include a number of documentaries, was reported missing Monday, according to authorities.

Authorities say they had been notified by his family that he was distraught and thinking of running his car off a cliff in the area.

Wednesday morning, deputies received a call about 6 a.m. about a crash near mile marker 31.

Investigators also found a suicide note nearby.

Family members issued the following statement on his Facebook page Wednesday.

"Our worst fears regarding Brian Gerber have been confirmed. Brian's family thanks you for all the condolences, good thoughts, prayers and asks for your patience and understanding during this most difficult of times. Obviously they are overwhelmed with this situation and are asking for privacy. We will be in touch as soon as arrangements have been made for services."

Gerber, 41, was one of the people behind the popular event Digital Hollywood. He is survived by two sons and his wife, actress Arabella Fields.